Today, perhaps more than at any other time in recent memory, religion is at the heart of daily events. The headlines bring news of war, terrorist attacks, the upcoming elections, corporate scandals, struggles over gay marriage, continuing tragedy in Israel. All of these wrap around religion in some way and, because of that, books in the category are, sadly, more timely and important than ever.
In this issue of Religion Update, we examine the latest crop of books at the intersection of religion and the current affairs that touch us all. Not surprisingly in this election year—and in the midst of wars on battlefields at home and abroad, conventional and uncharted—there are many titles today on religion and politics. Other battles are being fought in the churches—over the issue of gay clergy and the ongoing fallout from the priest sex abuse scandal—and still more are being waged in the courts, over issues such as same-sex marriage and corporate ethics violations. In a volatile world, the books strive to make sense of it all.
Books in Brief
What's new in prayer and inspiration.
All Faiths Calendar
Selected observances for Summer 2004.
Not Such Strange Bedfellows
The interplay between religion and politics is a hot topic across all faiths.
From the Pulpit To the Bedroom
New titles reflect Judeo-Christian thaw on homosexuality and more openness about sex.
Inspired by the Golden Rule
Business ethics titles bring religious principles into the workplace.
In Profile
Inspired takes on the big issues.
